Kim Kardashian has revealed she was diagnosed with esophagitis in the official trailer for Season 8 of The Kardashians, released Thursday.
In the trailer, Kardashian is shown discussing her diagnosis while someone asks whether it was the same condition that caused her father’s death. Kardashian responds, “Yeah,” before the footage shows her family reacting emotionally to the news.
However, the medical conditions are different. MedlinePlus describes esophagitis as swelling, inflammation or irritation of the esophageal lining.
It can develop for several reasons, including stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus, a condition commonly associated with GERD.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases says other potential causes include certain medicines, infections and allergies.
Symptoms can include painful or difficult swallowing, heartburn, coughing, hoarseness and a sore throat.
Robert Kardashian’s Medical History
Robert Kardashian, a defense attorney who represented O.J. Simpson during his 1995 murder trial, died in September 2003 after being diagnosed with esophageal cancer about two months earlier.
The National Cancer Institute explains that esophageal cancer occurs when malignant cells form in the tissues of the esophagus. Its two main types are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.
Esophagitis itself is not the same as cancer. According to MedlinePlus, prolonged GERD can contribute to Barrett’s esophagus, in which stomach acid damages the esophageal lining and causes cellular changes.
Mayo Clinic recommends addressing the underlying cause, following prescribed treatment and avoiding factors that worsen reflux. The Kardashians Season 8 premieres Oct. 8 on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+.
